In the heart of Topeka, one chapter of a national fraternity has been making history, shaping lives, and uplifting the community for nearly 100 years. The Delta Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., chartered on May 14, 1925, stands as the first Omega chapter in the state of Kansas—and the longest active chapter west of the Mississippi River.
This is more than just a fraternity chapter. Delta Phi is a living legacy of Black excellence, service, and leadership—and its story is woven deep into the social and educational fabric of Topeka.
A History Built on Excellence
From its earliest days, Delta Phi has been closely connected to Washburn University, with members who stood out in academics, sports, and student leadership. Track star Alonzo Harrison still holds the 100-yard dash record. Sherman A. Parks Jr. served as captain of the baseball team and became the first Black president of student life at Washburn.
The chapter’s founding members—Dr. M. Bolton, Dr. Egester A. Woodward, Dr. S. Haggard, M.L. Ross, L.E. Drewy, E. Ridley, A.I. Terrell, W.L. Johnson, and W.A. Jones—were men of vision, professionalism, and purpose.
Among them was Merrill L. Ross, a Tuskegee Airman and lifelong educator. Ross taught at every Black elementary school in Topeka and coached the historic Topeka High School Ramblers. After serving in WWII, he returned to Topeka and spent decades shaping young lives alongside his wife, Barbara. In 1993, their efforts were honored when High Park South Elementary School was renamed Ross Elementary in their name.
Another pillar of the chapter—and of Kansas history—was Judge Sherman A. Parks, Sr., a WWII Navy veteran and trailblazer who served as the highest-ranking Black judicial officer in Kansas as a member of the Kansas Court of Appeals. Judge Parks also served as Kansas Assistant Attorney General, Chief Attorney for Alcohol Beverage Control, and an adjunct professor at Washburn Law School. His influence stretched across law, education, and community development.
Mandated to Serve
While Delta Phi’s legacy includes distinguished leaders, its ongoing work in the community is just as impactful. The chapter follows Omega Psi Phi’s 13 nationally mandated programs, including:
- Voter Registration Initiatives
- NAACP Support
- Health Awareness Events
- The Dr. Charles R. Drew Blood Drive
- Scholarships through Talent Hunt and National Essay Contests
- Fatherhood & Mentoring Initiatives
- College Endowment Contributions
- Achievement Week, recognizing unsung community heroes. In 2024, Delta Phi honored several Topeka standouts, including:
- Dr. Nicolas Gardner – Ross Elementary, Academic Citizen of the Year
- Mrs. Sarah Ahlstehdt – Stormont Vail, Community Citizen of the Year
El Shaddai Ministries, USD 501, Washburn University, and Stormont Vail Health Systems for their impact in education and public health
Coming April 25th, 2025: Ques of Comedy Fundraiser
To continue these vital efforts, the Delta Phi Chapter is hosting Ques of Comedy, a powerful night of laughter and giving back.
All proceeds will stay local in Topeka, directly funding:
- Scholarships for youth and college-bound students
- Health awareness programs
- Voter education and registration drives
- The Achievement Week awards
- The Talent Hunt competition
- NAACP partnership initiatives
- College endowment support for HBCUs and local institutions
By attending Ques of Comedy, guests are doing more than enjoying a night of fun—they’re investing in education, health, and civic engagement, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those the fraternity serves.
Why It Matters
The Delta Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is proof that true legacy isn’t just built by what you achieve—but by how many lives you uplift along the way.
Whether through blood drives, scholarships, or recognizing community leaders, Delta Phi has remained a beacon of purpose in Topeka. As they approach their 100-year anniversary, the chapter is only getting stronger—rooted in history, driven by service, and powered by a brotherhood committed to building a better future.
Want to Support?
Follow Ques of Comedy Event Page & the Delta Phi Ques on Facebook for more updates and grab your tickets to the upcoming Ques of Comedy. Your laugh can change a life.
